Lower School News & Stories

Beth Sholtes has been awarded the Al Davis Teaching Award for the 2016-2017 school year.

Sholtes, seventh grade dean, joined the Riverdale faculty in 1984.

Head of School Dominic A.A. Randolph made the announcement at the closing faculty meeting last week. He said:

"In 1997 the Class of 1964 established an endowment to fund a faculty award in honor of Mr. Al Davis, a much respected teacher and administrator who taught at Riverdale from 1953 until his retirement in 1987. In selecting an honoree, emphasis is placed on a faculty member whose teaching is 'an act of mutual respect, commitment, and love' and who encourages team spirit, persistence, and a sense of community. The recipient is chosen by the division head in consultation with a representative of the Class of 1964. As a general practice, the selection alternates yearly among the three divisions."

"This year’s recipient has been an integral part of the Middle School since its inception in 2005, but actually started at Riverdale in the 1984-85 school year teaching physical education. In their 30-plus years at Riverdale, this person has personified the ideals of the Al Davis Award in all of their interactions with the Riverdale community, whether in health class, a grade meeting, or a parent evening. They treat everyone with respect and their love for this community is evident every day, from little things like checking in with a student after a much-anticipated assessment to bigger things like organizing Middle School events to ensure they run smoothly."

"In choosing this person, Milton Sipp noted, “When you read the inscription on the Al Davis award, it is easy to see why Beth Sholtes epitomizes and embodies the very spirit of this award. She is beloved by students, parents, colleagues--everyone--for her tireless care, concern, and outstanding work in what has been a brilliant and superb career here at Riverdale. We are all better people and better colleagues because of her inspired and dedicated work."